Texas Water Quality Reports

Comprehensive water quality reports for major cities in Texas. Access Consumer Confidence Reports, contaminant data, EPA compliance information, and historical trends for water systems across the state.

Texas Water Quality Overview

Water Sources

Texas relies on a mix of surface water from rivers and reservoirs (40%) and groundwater from aquifers (60%). Major sources include the Trinity, Brazos, and Colorado Rivers, plus the Ogallala and Edwards Aquifers. Water availability varies significantly by region.

Treatment Infrastructure

Major cities use conventional and advanced treatment including filtration, ozonation, and chlorination. Rural areas often rely on groundwater with minimal treatment. Many systems face aging infrastructure challenges.

Key Statistics

6,900+
Water Systems
29M
People Served
87%
Systems in Compliance
90+
Contaminants Monitored

Common Contaminants in Texas

Disinfection Byproducts (TTHMs/HAA5)

Common in surface water systems, particularly during hot summer months. Formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in source water.

Radionuclides

Naturally occurring radium and uranium found in groundwater, particularly in West Texas and Gulf Coast regions.

Arsenic

Naturally occurring in groundwater, especially in rural areas. More common in Gulf Coast and parts of Central Texas.

Nitrates

Agricultural runoff and septic systems contribute to elevated nitrate levels, particularly in rural areas and the Texas Panhandle.

Lead

Present in older homes with lead service lines or plumbing. More common in systems with corrosive water or inadequate corrosion control.

Texas-Specific Regulations

Texas follows federal EPA regulations and adds state-specific requirements through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ):

Lead and Copper Rule

Enhanced monitoring requirements for lead and copper, with mandatory public education when action levels are exceeded.

Capacity Development

New water systems must demonstrate technical, managerial, and financial capacity before approval to operate.

Public Notification

Required public notice within 24 hours for acute health risks and within 30 days for monitoring violations.

Historical Water Quality Trends

2020-2024 Improvements

  • Reduced TTHMs through improved treatment and distribution system maintenance
  • Expanded monitoring for emerging contaminants including PFAS
  • Enhanced lead and copper monitoring at schools and childcare facilities
  • Improved drought management and source water protection

Ongoing Challenges

  • Small rural systems struggle with compliance and infrastructure upgrades
  • Aging infrastructure in older neighborhoods contributes to lead concerns
  • Drought conditions strain water supplies and can concentrate contaminants
  • Population growth increases demand on existing water treatment capacity

Texas Water Quality Agency Contact

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)

Water Supply Division

P.O. Box 13087

Austin, TX 78711-3087

Contact Information

Phone: (512) 239-4691

Toll-free: (888) 777-3186

Website: tceq.texas.gov/drinkingwater

EPA Region 6 (South Central)
1201 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75270
Phone: (214) 665-2200 | Toll-free: (800) 887-6063

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find my Texas city water quality report?

Select your city from the list above to view its detailed water quality report. Each report includes contaminant levels, source water information, treatment methods, and links to official Consumer Confidence Reports from your local water utility.

What are common water quality issues in Texas?

Texas water systems commonly monitor for disinfection byproducts (TTHMs and HAA5), radionuclides, nitrates, arsenic, and lead. Specific contaminants vary by region depending on water source, agricultural activity, and infrastructure age.

Who regulates water quality in Texas?

Water quality in Texas is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), working in conjunction with the federal EPA to ensure drinking water meets all federal and state standards.